A-6

APPENDIX I Meteorological Meteorological observations were commenced at Atafu Village, on the north-western side of the atoll, in 1925, and synoptic reports have been forwarded since 1931. Reports at all three atolls are taken by the radio operators. The observations at Nukunono and .Fakaofo are made at the villages 011 the western sides of the respective atolls. The time used is Samoan time, which is that of longitude 165° W., 11 hours slow on G-.M.T. Readings show that the temperature of the ocean around the Group shows slight variation—namely, from 81-5° f. to 83° p.—during the year. The relative humidity at the morning observation averages 84 per cent. There is little variation throughout the year. The afternoon humidity averages 76 per cent., with variations from 72 per cent, in September to 81. per cent, in February.

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